Chef Choi Kang-rok Discusses Future Plans After Winning 'Black and White Chef: Culinary Class War Season 2'

Chef Choi Kang-rok, the winner of the intense culinary survival show 'Black and White Chef: Culinary Class War Season 2,' has shared behind-the-scenes stories from the show and expressed his thoughtful approach towards future restaurant operations, heightening fans' expectations.

On Chef Park Joon-woo's YouTube channel, 'Joon-woo's Delicious Junne,' a video titled 'Kang Leo & Choi Kang-rok Gather at Park Joon-woo's Dessert Shop in Seochon' was uploaded.

In the video, Choi Kang-rok, the winner of Netflix's 'Black and White Chef: Culinary Class War Season 2,' appeared alongside Chef Kang Leo and Chef Park Joon-woo to share updates. Choi revealed that during his time on 'Black and White Chef 2,' his goal was not initially to win but rather to compete against legendary chefs like Edward Lee, an 'Iron Chef' alum. He added that the process of competing with past winners of shows he enjoyed was a delightful goal in itself.

The broadcast also revealed a humorous episode with fellow chefs after the show ended. Choi recalled meeting Chef Kim Do-yoon, who was dealing with the pain of elimination. Kim, while drinking soju, speculated that the winner would come from the 'Baek Su-jeo' team and proposed a toast, but Choi had to remain silent, unable to reveal that he was the winner. Kim expressed indifference about who won, but Choi had to quietly finish his drink, keeping the secret.

Currently without a restaurant, Choi addressed the curiosity about his future plans and potential restaurant opening. He has been continuously conceptualizing a new establishment but is cautious due to the physical toll he experienced during past restaurant operations. Choi is currently focusing on consulting and menu development, emphasizing the need to build his strength and find like-minded colleagues before returning to the kitchen.

After winning 'MasterChef Korea 2' and establishing a unique culinary world with restaurants like '136-gil Yukmi' and 'Restaurant Neo,' Choi has long-term dreams of running a noodle shop. He expressed a desire to serve noodles simply when he is older and more relaxed, but for now, he aims to strengthen his foundation and welcome guests in a healthy state. Choi's journey, marked by humility and reflection on the essence of being a chef, continues to draw attention even after his victory in 'Black and White Chef 2.'

Reporter Chaeryeong Lim, Ten Asia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr